Many students struggle with time management, organization, task initiation, and working memory—difficulty starting assignments, losing track of materials, or breaking large projects into manageable steps. Others may have trouble with planning, prioritization, or shifting between tasks. These challenges often show up as missed deadlines, incomplete homework, or difficulty studying for tests, even when a student understands the material itself.

In a classroom setting with a 12.9:1 student-teacher ratio, teachers focus primarily on content delivery rather than individual organizational or planning strategies. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to assess your specific challenges—whether it's note-taking, test preparation, or project management—and teach strategies tailored to your learning style and goals. This targeted approach helps students build sustainable habits they can apply across all their classes.

Students typically see improvements in assignment completion rates, grades on tests and projects, and reduced stress around deadlines. Many develop stronger organizational systems (digital or paper-based), better time management skills, and increased confidence in tackling complex assignments. The goal is to build independent skills that transfer across subjects and persist long after tutoring ends.

Executive functioning skills are important at every level, but students often need the most support during transitions—moving to middle school, high school, or college where expectations for independence increase significantly. Middle and high school students preparing for standardized tests or managing multiple classes particularly benefit from strategies like study planning and test preparation. Even elementary students can develop foundational organizational habits that set them up for success.

The initial session focuses on understanding your specific challenges and goals. A tutor will ask about your current routines, where you struggle most (homework, studying, projects, time management), and what strategies you've already tried. Based on this assessment, they'll begin introducing practical tools and techniques tailored to your needs, and work with you to create a plan for the weeks ahead.

Look for tutors with experience in study skills, academic coaching, or working with students who have attention or organizational challenges. Many effective executive functioning tutors have backgrounds in education, psychology, or learning support. It's also valuable to find someone who understands the specific demands of your student's school or grade level, and who can explain their strategies clearly so you understand what's being taught.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in executive functioning and study skills. Simply share your student's specific challenges and goals, and we'll match you with a tutor who has relevant experience and availability. You can start with an initial session to see if the fit is right, and adjust your plan as your student builds stronger organizational and planning habits.